The Michael Fields Agricultural Institute (MFAI) has long been concerned about soil and water conservation and environmental sustainability. In recent years, an increasing number of landowners have approached us for advice on how to manage lands they have inherited or recently purchased, wanting the best advice on ways to optimize their conservation assets of soil, water, and wildlife.

MFAI now offers expertise from seasoned conservationist Pat Murphy, providing conservation planning for individual farms involved in conventional or organic production. Participants in the process will set goals for their farm production system and will receive conservation planning alternatives to help achieve these goals.

Assessments typically include an estimate of soil erosion measured in Tons/Acre/Year, recommendations for cropland surface water management (gully and rill erosion) and an assessment of the non-production areas of the farm to identify opportunities for ecosystem restoration or enhancement. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) may be able to provide financial assistance to cover a portion of the cost of this assessment through the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) for farms transitioning to an organic production system.

If you are interested in learning more about a conservation planning resource assessment and environmental sustainability for your farm please contact Pat Murphy at 608-772-2602 or murphpa58@gmail.com for more information.